Uplink carrier aggregation and simultaneous mimo using a diplexer between an antenna and an antenna switch module

ABSTRACT

Described herein are front-end architectures and wireless devices that support uplink carrier aggregation and simultaneous MIMO operations in a plurality of band combinations. The front-end architectures include a combination of low-band, mid-band, high-band, MIMO, and uplink carrier aggregation modules to provide the described functionality. The architectures include an antenna switch module coupled to a first antenna and to a second antenna. The second antenna is coupled to the antenna switch module through a diplexer that combines high- and mid-band signals with low-band signals received from a low-band module, the low-band signals coupled to the diplexer without passing through the antenna switch module.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No.16/125,708 filed Sep. 9, 2018 and entitled “Front-End Architecture ThatSupports Uplink Carrier Aggregation and Simultaneous MIMO Using SwitchCombining,” which is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No.15/652,234 filed Jul. 17, 2017 and entitled “Uplink Carrier AggregationFront-End Architecture That Supports Simultaneous MIMO,” which claimspriority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/363,275 filed Jul. 17,2016 and entitled “4-Antenna Uplink Carrier Aggregation Front-EndArchitecture That Supports Simultaneous 4×4 MIMO,” each of which isexpressly incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.

BACKGROUND Field

The present disclosure relates to front-end architectures for wirelessapplications.

Description of Related Art

In wireless applications, a signal to be transmitted is typicallygenerated by a transceiver, amplified by a power amplifier, filtered bya filter, and routed to an antenna by a switch network. Such a signaltransmitted through the antenna has a relatively high power.

In a generally reverse manner, a relatively weak signal received throughan antenna is typically routed from the antenna by a switch network,filtered by a filter, amplified by a low-noise amplifier, and providedto the transceiver. In some applications, the amplification can beachieved in close proximity to the antenna to reduce loss of therelatively weak signal.

SUMMARY

According to a number of implementations, the present disclosure relatesto a front-end architecture for wireless communication comprising afirst module having a low-band power amplifier with integrated duplexer,a second module having a power amplifier with integrated duplexer andconfigured to provide uplink carrier-aggregation, and a plurality ofthird modules each having a power amplifier with integrated duplexer fora mid-low-band or higher frequency band.

A front-end architecture is provided for wireless application thatincludes a first mid-band amplifier system configured to amplifytransmit and receive signals in a first mid-band; and a second mid-bandamplifier system configured to amplify at least a transmit signal in asecond mid-band, such that the front-end architecture is capable ofsimultaneous uplink operations in the first mid-band and the secondmid-band.

A wireless device is provided that includes a transceiver configured togenerate a plurality of transmit signals and process a plurality ofreceived signals; a plurality of antennas configured to facilitatetransmission of the transmit signals and reception of the receivedsignals; and a front-end system implemented between the transceiver andthe plurality of antennas, and including a first module having alow-band power amplifier with integrated duplexer, a second modulehaving a power amplifier with integrated duplexer and configured toprovide uplink carrier-aggregation, and a plurality of third moduleseach having a power amplifier with integrated duplexer for amid-low-band or higher frequency band, the front-end system furtherincluding a first power management unit implemented to provide supplyvoltage for each of the first module and the second module, and a secondpower management unit implemented to provide supply voltage for each ofthe plurality of third modules.

For purposes of summarizing the disclosure, certain aspects, advantagesand novel features have been described herein. It is to be understoodthat not necessarily all such advantages may be achieved in accordancewith any particular embodiment. Thus, the disclosed embodiments may becarried out in a manner that achieves or optimizes one advantage orgroup of advantages as taught herein without necessarily achieving otheradvantages as may be taught or suggested herein.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 illustrates a front-end architecture having one or more featuresas described herein, and configured to support multiple antennas.

FIGS. 2, 3, and 4 illustrate block diagrams of example front-endarchitectures configured for uplink carrier aggregation and simultaneousMIMO.

FIG. 5A illustrates an example front-end architecture wherein there isno MB/HB switch combining in a MIMO DRx module and where a LB diplexeris positioned before an antenna switch module.

FIGS. 5B, 5C, 5D, 5E, 5F, 5G, 5H, and 5I illustrate various operationalmodes of the front-end architecture of FIG. 5A.

FIG. 6A illustrates a variation of the front-end architecture of FIG. 5Awherein the LB PAiD includes four output ports.

FIGS. 6B and 6C illustrate various operational modes of the front-endarchitecture of FIG. 6A.

FIG. 7A illustrates another variation of a front-end architecturewherein there is no MB/HB switch combining in a MIMO DRx module, where aLB diplexer is positioned after an antenna switch module, and where aL-M/H diplexer is positioned between an antenna and the antenna switchmodule.

FIGS. 7B, 7C, 7D, 7E, 7F, 7G, 7H, and 7I illustrate various operationalmodes of the front-end architecture of FIG. 7A.

FIG. 8A illustrates another example front-end architecture wherein thereis MB/HB switch combining in a MIMO DRx module and where a LB diplexeris positioned before an antenna switch module.

FIGS. 8B, 8C, 8D, 8E, 8F, 8G, 8H, and 8I illustrate various operationalmodes of the front-end architecture of FIG. 8A.

FIG. 9A illustrates another variation of a front-end architecturewherein there is MB/HB switch combining in a MIMO DRx module and where aLB diplexer is positioned after an antenna switch module.

FIGS. 9B, 9C, 9D, 9E, 9F, 9G, 9H, and 9I illustrate various operationalmodes of the front-end architecture of FIG. 9A.

FIGS. 10, 11, and 12 illustrate example MIMO DRx modules that can beimplemented in front-end architectures disclosed herein.

FIG. 13A illustrates another example front-end architecture thatincludes an antenna diversity switch providing antenna swapimplementation and connectivity of a diplexer after the antenna swapswitch.

FIGS. 13B, 13C, 13D, 13E, 13F, 13G, 13H, and 13I illustrate variousoperational modes of the front-end architecture of FIG. 13A.

FIG. 14 illustrates an example MIMO DRx module that can be implementedin front-end architectures disclosed herein.

FIG. 15A illustrates another example front-end architecture thatincludes an antenna diversity switch providing antenna swapimplementation, connectivity of a diplexer after the antenna swapswitch, and an integrated UL CA power amplifier module and MIMO DRxmodule.

FIGS. 15B, 15C, 15D, 15E, 15F, and 15G illustrate various operationalmodes of the front-end architecture of FIG. 15A.

FIG. 16 illustrates an example combination module that combinesfunctionality of a MIMO DRx module and an UL CA PA module, thecombination module capable of implementation in one or more of thefront-end architectures disclosed herein.

FIG. 17 illustrates an example LB PAMiD that can be used with one ormore of the front-end architectures disclosed herein.

FIG. 18 illustrates a wireless device having one or more features asdescribed herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF SOME EMBODIMENTS

The headings provided herein, if any, are for convenience only and donot necessarily affect the scope or meaning of the claimed invention.

Introduction

Described herein are various examples related to radio-frequency (RF)front-end architectures for operations of a wireless device havingmultiple antennas. For example, such a wireless device can include fourantennas. Although various examples are described in the context of fourantennas, it will be understood that one or more features of the presentdisclosure can also be implemented for wireless devices having othernumbers of antennas. It will also be understood that not all of suchfour antennas necessarily need to be utilized when one or more featuresof the present disclosure is/are implemented in the wireless device.

Cellular specifications for uplink cellular radio-frequency (RF) specifythat front-end architectures should support uplink carrier-aggregation(UL CA) simultaneous with mid-band (MB) 4×4 MIMO (multiple-input andmultiple-output) as well as UL CA simultaneous with 4×4 high-band (HB)MIMO in all combinations of bands. UL CA combines two or more wireless(e.g., LTE) signals (component carriers), transmitted (uplinked) from asingle user device to a wireless base station, dramatically increasingthe speed with which a user can upload content and files. MIMO usesmultiple antennas at both the source (transmitter) and the destination(receiver). The antennas at each end of the communications circuit arecombined to reduce or minimize errors and to enhance or optimize dataspeed

Current front-end architectures may not be well-suited to providefunctionality that conforms with these specifications. Connectivity maybe difficult to achieve for flexible support of all use cases. Aparticular challenge is avoiding simultaneous UL transmit (TX) carriersfrom being merged onto a common RF path where switch linearity becomes alimitation to overall intermodulation distortion (IMD). A furtherchallenge is power management unit (PMU) connectivity of the varioussupply voltages to the TX power amplifiers to support the separate TXsignal flow.

In some implementations, the present disclosure involves front-endarchitectures for wireless communication that supports all intendedcombinations of UL CA and simultaneous 4×4 MIMO. Embodiments can includea separate MB primary PAiD and a separate HB primary PAiD, and canestablish various numbers of antenna outputs from these modules toconnect to available diplexers or triplexers in selected ways to coverall intended use cases. Duplication of filters, duplexers, and/orquadplexers is reduced or minimized by re-using filtering in aselectively designed MB/HB MIMO DRx module that supports a minimumnumber of switch-combined TX filters. A UL CA PAM (power amplifiermodule) makes use of that module, as well as the re-use of availablefilters in the MB primary PAiD. In some cases, to support HB-HB UL CA, aHB TX PA engine in the UL CA PAM is enabled by routing signal pathsthrough the filtering of the primary HB PAiD as well.

Multiple outputs from each PAiD and the MB/HB MIMO DRx modules are thenconnected in selected ways to diplexers and/or triplexers that theninterface to two available primary antennas. Two similarly band supportdefined diversity antennas on the far side of a user equipment (UE) areconnected to a L/M/H/U diversity RX (receive) chain, and the secondM/H/U antenna connected to a M/H/U DRx module. MB/HB CA diplexers can beconfigured to combine, for example, B41/B7 and MB, as well as, forexample, a B40/B30 and MB CA extractor filter and can be designed toreduce or minimize insertion losses with enhanced or optimizedout-of-band attenuation/isolation in CA.

FIG. 1 depicts a front-end architecture 100 having one or more featuresas described herein, and configured to support multiple antennas. Moreparticularly, the front-end architecture 100 is shown to be coupled tofour antennas 101, 102, 103, 104. Each of such antennas can facilitatetransmit (TX) and/or receive (RX) operations through the front-endarchitecture 100.

For transmit operations, the front-end architecture 100 can be incommunication with, for example, a transceiver to receive, process, androute one or more transmit signals to one or more of the antennas 101,102, 103, 104. The one or more transmit signals are collectivelydepicted as an arrow 107.

For transmit operations, the front-end architecture 100 can receive oneor more signals from one or more of the antennas 101, 102, 103, 104,process such signal(s), and route such processed signal(s) to, forexample, a transceiver which may or may not be the same as the foregoingtransceiver associated with the transmit operations. The one or morereceived signals are collectively depicted as an arrow 108.

The front-end architecture 100 can also include a carrier aggregation(CA) functionality provided by one or more modules collectively referredto as carrier aggregation architecture 109 a. Such a carrier aggregationfunctionality can include an uplink (UL) carrier aggregation (UL CA)functionality and/or a downlink (DL) carrier aggregation (DL CA)functionality. For the purpose of description, it will be understoodthat in a given CA functionality, a plurality of signals associated withthe CA functionality may or may not share a common antenna or a commonsignal path. The front-end architecture 100 can also include a multipleinput multiple output (MIMO) functionality provided by one or moremodules collectively referred to as MIMO architecture 109 b.

For the purpose of description, the following assumptions can be made.First, a given platform solution can be assumed to support fullhot-swapping that enables a front-end architecture to be desirablyconfigured for connectivity and active path selection. For example,primary component carrier(s) (PCC) can be supported by an uplink carrieraggregation (UL CA) module or component, and secondary componentcarrier(s) (SCC) can be supported by a primary module or component, orvice versa. In another example, transmit (TX) and receive (RX)operations do not necessarily need to share the same path (e.g., TX canbe from an UL CA module, RX can be from the UL CA module, primarymodule, or a secondary RX module).

Second, four antennas are assumed to be available with the followingdefined band support listed in Table 1.

TABLE 1 Antenna Band support Ant 1 MB/HB/UHB/eLAA Ant 2LB/MB/MLB/HB/UHB/eLAA Ant 3 MB/HB/UHB/eLAA Ant 4 LB/MB/MLB/HB/UHB/eLAA

Table 2 lists examples of frequency ranges referenced in Table 1. Itwill be understood that one or more features of the present disclosurecan also be implemented with other frequency ranges of the variousexample bands.

TABLE 2 Band Example frequency range LB (low-band)  698-960 MHz MLB(mid-low-band) 1427-1518 MHz MB (mid-band) 1710-2200 MHz HB (high-band)2300-2690 MHz UHB (ultra-high-band) 3400-3800 MHz eLAA (enhanced LAA)5150-5925 MHz

For the purpose of description, low, mid and high bands are referred toherein as LB, MB and HB, or simply as L, M and H, respectively. Thelatter set of abbreviations are utilized herein for combinations ofbands. For example, LM refers to a combination of LB and MB, LMH refersto a combination of LB, MB and HB, MM refers to a combination of MB andMB, etc.

In some embodiments, a front-end architecture or system having one ormore features as described herein can include some or all of thefollowing. First, in some embodiments, a system can be configured forsimultaneous operations of LM UL CA and 4×4 MB MIMO; simultaneousoperations of LM UL CA and 4×4 HB MIMO; simultaneous operations of LH ULCA and 4×4 MB MIMO; simultaneous operations of LH UL CA and 4×4 HB MIMO;simultaneous operations of MM UL CA and 4×4 MB MIMO; simultaneousoperations of MM UL CA and 4×4 HB MIMO; simultaneous operations of MH ULCA and 4×4 MB MIMO; simultaneous operations of MH UL CA and 4×4 HB MIMO;simultaneous operations of HH UL CA and 4×4 MB MIMO; and simultaneousoperations of HH UL CA and 4×4 HB MIMO.

Second, in some embodiments, a single module can be configured toflexibly support all possible or targeted UL CA operations.

Third, in some embodiments, flexible support of 4×4 and higher orderMIMO for bands greater than 1710 MHz can be implemented.

Fourth, in some embodiments, support end-to-end user equipment (UE)antenna swap and/or antenna switch diversity for at least one antenna.

Fifth, in some embodiments, duplication of filtering/RX paths can beminimized or reduced for smallest or reduced size and/or cost. In such aconfiguration, TX-only filtering in an UL CA module (e.g., as opposed tofull duplexers and/or quadplexers) can be implemented. Also, lower costand/or smaller size UL CA solutions can be realized, as well asconsiderable reductions in TX insertion loss (IL) for UL CA path(s).

Sixth, in some embodiments, insertion loss across all targeted bandsupport and CA support configurations can be reduced or minimized.

Seventh, in some embodiments, maximal or increased use of antennaisolation for enhanced performance in CA combinations can be realized.

In some embodiments, one or more features of the present disclosure canbe implemented in various connectivity configurations. Eightnon-limiting examples are described herein.

In addition, aspects of the various connectivity configurations areimplemented in example architecture embodiments that are describedherein. Some architectural embodiments include MB and HB MIMO DRxmodules employing MB/HB switch-combined filters. Various architecturalembodiments include MB and HB MIMO DRx not employing MB/HB switchcombining. Certain architectural embodiments leverage MB/MBswitch-combining in the MB/HB MIMO DRx module. Variations on thesearchitectural embodiments can include, for example and withoutlimitation, placement of LB duplexing after an antenna switch (e.g., amPnT switch) for advantages in harmonic margin of the harmonicallyrelated CA cases, at a slight penalty in insertion loss for thatspecific antenna path.

CONNECTIVITY EXAMPLE 1

In some embodiments, a front-end architecture can include two powermanagement units (PMUs) that deliver supply voltage to integrated poweramplifier (PA) modules and that can be utilized to adjust the power oftwo active TX paths independently for overall power efficiency. By wayof examples, partitioning of power supply connectivity can be asfollows: PMU #1 powers LB PAiD/UL CA PAiD, PMU #2 powers MLB PAiD/MBPAiD/HB PAiD/UHB PAiD.

It is noted that PAiD in the description and figures herein refers to apower amplifier with integrated duplexer, and additional detailsconcerning example embodiments of PAiDs are described herein. However,it will be understood that integration of a duplexer with a poweramplifier is not necessarily required in a front-end architecture havingone or more features as described herein.

It is also noted that a given PMU can be configured to support anenvelope tracking (ET) operation or an average power tracking (APT)operation in a corresponding power amplifier. In the latter case, theAPT operation can include a high-voltage (HV) APT operation.

CONNECTIVITY EXAMPLE 2

In some embodiments, advanced phones required to support 4×4 DL MIMO(multiple-input multiple-output) can include four antennas. One or morefeatures of the present disclosure can be configured to optimize orenhance connectivity to these available antennas. Some designs caninclude a multi-throw high isolation/high linearity switch for antennaselection. Front-end architectures disclosed herein can establishenhanced or optimal diplexing or triplexing of signal paths to supportall targeted UL CA and MIMO use cases. These architectures can alsobypass the diplexer and/or triplexer to reduce insertion loss in singleband operation.

CONNECTIVITY EXAMPLE 3

In some embodiments, front-end architectures disclosed herein can beimplemented to establish reduced or minimal TX filtering in the MB/HBMIMO DRx module for reduced cost and/or smaller size. Such architecturescan be configured to leverage the re-use of existing TX filters, duplexfilters, switch-combined filters, and/or ganged filters in the MB and HBprimary PAiD, thereby reducing or minimizing filter duplication of theoverall architecture.

CONNECTIVITY EXAMPLE 4

In some embodiments, front-end architectures disclosed herein can beconfigured to support 1) using MB/HB switch-combined filterimplementations in the MB/HB MIMO DRx module, or 2) no MB/HBswitch-combined filter implementations in the MB/HB MIMO DRx module.Such architectures can be configured to employ MB/MB switch-combining inthe MB/HB MIMO DRx module.

CONNECTIVITY EXAMPLE 5

In some embodiments, front-end architectures disclosed herein can beconfigured to enable LB diplexing before or after a mPnT switch. Thiscan enhance or optimize trade-offs between harmonic margin inharmonically related CA and insertion loss for the signal pathssupported by the LB antenna.

CONNECTIVITY EXAMPLE 6

In some embodiments, front-end architectures disclosed herein can beconfigured to support LB antenna swapping and harmonic filtering forharmonically-related CA performance with a diplexer following an antennaswap switch. In such embodiments, both sides of the diplexer can beflexibly connected to poles of that antenna swap switch.

CONNECTIVITY EXAMPLE 7

In some embodiments, front-end architectures disclosed herein can beconfigured to integrate TX filtering that can be ganged with RXfiltering or TX filtering that can be switch-combined with RX filteringthat is implemented in the MB/HB MIMO DRx module. In such embodiments,the UL CA power amplifier module and the MIMO DRx module can be separatemodules.

CONNECTIVITY EXAMPLE 8

In some embodiments, front-end architectures disclosed herein can beconfigured to integrate the UL CA power amplifier with the TX filteringand RX filtering of the MB/HB MIMO DRx module using a single module(e.g., a UL CA PAM+MIMO DRx module).

Front-End Architectures for Uplink Carrier Aggregation and SimultaneousMIMO

FIG. 2 illustrates an example front-end architecture 100 configured forUL CA and simultaneous MIMO. The front-end architecture includes twoseparate PMUs 105, 106. The first PMU 105 is configured to supply poweramplifiers and this can be provided using envelope tracking (ET) and/oraverage power tracking (APT) operations. For example, a HB PAiD moduleor component 110 can be provided with supply voltage from the first PMU105 for one or more power amplifiers therein for high-band operations.In another example, MB PAiD module or component 140 can be provided withsupply voltage from the first PMU 105 for one or more power amplifierstherein for mid-band operations.

The second PMU 106 is configured to supply power amplifiers and this canbe provided using ET or APT operations. For example, an LB PAiD moduleor component 150 can be provided with supply voltage from the second PMU122 for one or more power amplifiers therein for low-band operations. Inanother example, a UL CA module or component 120 can be provided with ETsupply voltage from the second PMU 106 for one or more power amplifierstherein for high- and/or mid-band carrier aggregation.

Diversity receive (DRX) operations can be achieved through either orboth of first and second antennas 101, 102. Such DRX operations can befacilitated by a MB/HB/UHB MIMO DRx module 130 having MIMOfunctionality.

The HB PAiD module 110 can be configured to include a high-bandamplification functionality. The HB PAiD module can be coupled to the ULCA module 120 to enable re-using filters. An amplified high-band signalcan be output and coupled to a first antenna 101 or a second antenna 102through a switching network 170, such as an antenna switch module.Signals can also be selected and filtered using diplexers, triplexers,quadplexers, extractors, band-pass filters, low-pass filters, high-passfilters, notch filters, or the like, collectively referred to asmultiplexers 160.

The HB PAiD module 110 can be further configured to process receivedsignals in a plurality of high-bands. Each high-band signal can bereceived from the first antenna 101 or the second antenna 102 throughthe switch 170 and be amplified by a low-noise amplifier (LNA). The HBPAiD module 110 can be configured to provide frequency-divisionduplexing (FDD) functionality or time-division duplexing (TDD)functionality.

The MB PAiD module 140 can be configured to include a mid-bandamplification functionality. An amplified mid-band signal can be outputand coupled to the first antenna 101 or the second antenna 102 throughthe switch 170. The MB PAiD module 140 can be further configured toprocess received signals in a plurality of mid-bands. Each mid-bandsignal can be received from the first antenna 101 or the second antenna102 through the switch 170 and be amplified by a low-noise amplifier(LNA). A mid-band module can include separate PA/LNA pairs for each of aplurality of mid-bands.

The LB PAiD module 150 can be configured to include a low-bandamplification functionality. An amplified low-band signal can be outputand coupled to the second antenna 102. The LB PAiD module 150 can befurther configured to process received signals in a plurality oflow-bands. Each low-band signal can be received from the second antenna102 and be amplified by a low-noise amplifier (LNA).

The example UL CA MB module 120 can be configured to process receivedsignals in a plurality of mid-bands and/or high-bands. Each mid- orhigh-band signal can be received from the first antenna 101 or thesecond antenna 102 through the switch 170 and be amplified by alow-noise amplifier (LNA).

The first antenna 101 can be configured to support mid, high andultra-high band operations. The first antenna 101 is capable of beingcoupled to each of the HB PAiD module 110, the MB PAiD module 140, theUL CA module 120, and the DRX module 130 through the switch 170 andmultiplexers 160 for mid- and high-band operations.

The second antenna 102 can be configured to support low, mid-low, mid,high and ultra-high band operations. Accordingly, the LB PAiD module 150as described herein is shown to be coupled to the second antenna 102through multiplexers 160 configured to direct low band signals to thesecond antenna 102. The second antenna 102 is also shown to be capableof being coupled to each of the HB PAiD module 110, the MB PAiD module140, the UL CA module 120, and the MIMO DRX module 130 through theswitch 170 and multiplexers 160 for mid- and high-band operations.

The architecture 100 is configured for UL CA operation and 4×4 MIMO.Similarly, FIG. 3 illustrates another example front-end architecture 100with this capability that includes an additional diplexer after theswitching network 170. This can improve insertion loss and linearityperformance of the architecture. Moreover, FIG. 4 illustrates yetanother example front-end architecture 100 with this capability thatintegrates the UL CA module and the MIMO DRx module into a singlecombination module 420. This can decrease costs and size as well asimprove performance through the re-use of integrated filters andduplexers.

EXAMPLE 1 OF A FRONT-END ARCHITECTURE

Examples 1-5 provide various front-end architecture configurations.Examples 1, 2, and 3 provide MB Tx and HB Rx duplexing using a CAdiplexer and/or extractor that is outside the MIMO DRx module. Examples4 and 5 provide MB Tx and HB Rx support via switch combining inside theMIMO module. Examples 1-5 are not configured to provide M MIMO in HH ULCA or H MIMO in HH UL CA. However, Examples 6 and 7 provide thesecapabilities.

Examples 1-5 can have the LB LPF placed between the antenna switch(e.g., switch 570, 770, 870, or 970) and antenna (e.g., antenna 101,102) to relax the ASM harmonic requirement. Examples 4 and 5 demonstratesuperior performance in MIMO Rx performance due at least in part to MBTX and HB Rx switch-combining that reduces or eliminates the CAdiplexer/extractor loss.

FIG. 5A illustrates an example front-end architecture 500 wherein thereis no MB/HB switch combining in a MIMO DRx module and where a LBdiplexer is positioned before an antenna switch module. PMU1 105 isconfigured to provide power to the MB PAiD module 540 and/or the HB PAiDmodule 510. PMU2 106 is configured to provide power to the UL CA module520 and/or the LB PAiD module 550.

The components herein mirror those described herein with respect toFIGS. 2-4. Accordingly, their functionality will not be described again.However, an optional 2G PAM module 590 is included in the examplearchitecture to illustrate additional functionality. The 2G PAM module590 can be configured to include amplification functionality for a 2Glow-band and a 2G mid-band. Accordingly, a MB/2GMB _RFIN pin can beprovided to receive a 2G mid-band signal for amplification. Similarly, a2GLB_RFIN pin can be provided to receive a 2G low-band signal foramplification. The amplified 2G mid-band signal can be output through apin 2GMB_OUT which can be coupled to a 2G_MB_IN pin of the MB PAiDmodule 540. Accordingly, the amplified 2G mid-band signal can be routedto the first antenna 101 or the second antenna 102 through the switch570. Similarly, the amplified 2G low-band signal can be output through apin 2G_LB_OUT which can be coupled to a 2G_LB_IN pin of the LB PAiDmodule 550. Accordingly, the amplified 2G low-band signal can be furtherrouted to the second antenna 102. A 2G module 590 can utilize portionsof the mid- and low-band modules 540, 550 to route amplified 2G signalsto respective antennas.

The modules are illustrated with a combination of filters and switchesas well as amplifiers (e.g., power amplifiers and low noise amplifiers)to provide amplification and filtering functionalities. As illustrated,various architectures and configurations provide the re-use of filters(e.g., through connections between the UL CA PAM 520, the HB PAiD 510,the MIMO DRx 530, and the MB PAiD 540). Switches can selectively directsignals to appropriate modules and appropriate filters within thosemodules to achieve targeted filtering and/or duplexing.

The architecture 500 includes a B30/B40 and MB diplexer 561, a B7/B41and MB diplexer 562, a B30/B40 and MB and LB triplexer 563, and a B7/B41and MB and LB triplexer 564. These diplexers and triplexers areconfigured to selectively direct signals from the antennas 101, 102 toappropriate modules to achieve UL CA and 4×4 MIMO (with other MIMOfunctionality being provided by additional antennas and secondarymodules, not shown). To illustrate these configurations, FIGS. 5B-5Iillustrate various operational modes of the front-end architecture 500of FIG. 5A.

FIG. 5B illustrates a configuration for LM UL CA+MB MIMO. ANT1 101 iscoupled to a primary PAiD 540 that provides MB TX, MB RX (e.g., signalpath 591). ANT2 102 is coupled to the primary LB Module 550 thatprovides LB TX, LB RX (e.g., signal path 592). A disadvantage of thisconfiguration is that it cannot support MB MIMO because MB MIMO isconnected to the MH CA diplexer/extractor and the MH CAdiplexer/extractor is not connected to the antenna.

FIG. 5C illustrates a configuration for LM UL CA+HB MIMO. ANT1 101 iscoupled to a primary PAiD 540 that provides MB TX, MB RX (e.g., signalpath 591) and also provides HB RX MIMO (e.g., signal path 593). ANT2 102is coupled to a primary LB Module 550 that provides LB TX and LB RX(e.g., signal path 592). A disadvantage of this configuration is that itcannot support HB RX because HB RX is connected to the MH CAdiplexer/extractor and the MH CA diplexer/extractor is not connected tothe antenna.

FIG. 5D illustrates a configuration for LH UL CA+MB MIMO. ANT1 101 iscoupled to a primary PAiD 510 that provides HB TX and HB RX (e.g.,signal path 591) and to the MIMO DRx 530 that provides MB RX MIMO (e.g.,signal path 594). ANT2 102 is coupled to a primary LB Module 550 thatprovides LB TX and LB RX (e.g., signal path 592) and to the MB PAiD 540that provides MB RX (e.g., signal path 593).

FIG. 5E illustrates a configuration for LH UL CA+HB MIMO. ANT1 101 iscoupled to a primary PAiD 510 that provides HB TX, HB RX (e.g., signalpath 591). ANT2 102 is coupled to a primary LB Module 550 that providesLB TX, LB RX (e.g., signal path 592) and to the MIMO DRx 530 thatprovides HB RX MIMO (e.g., signal path 593).

FIG. 5I illustrates a configuration that provides MM UL CA+MB MIMO. ANT2102 is coupled to a primary PAiD 540 that provides MB TX1, MB RX1, MBRX2 (e.g., signal path 593). ANT1 101 is coupled to the UL CA Module 520that provides MB TX2 (e.g., signal path 592) and to the MIMO DRx 530that provides MB RX2 MIMO (e.g., signal path 591) via switchplexing.This configuration uses switch combining in the MIMO module 530 (e.g.,B1 TX and B66 RX/B3 Rx, B2 TX and B2 RX/B66 RX).

FIG. 5F illustrates a configuration that provides MM UL CA+HB MIMO. ANT2102 is coupled to a Primary PAiD 540 that provides MB TX1, MB RX1, MBRX2 (e.g., signal path 593) and HB RX (e.g., signal path 594). ANT1 101is coupled to the UL CA Module 520 that provides MB TX2 (e.g., signalpath 592) and to the MIMO DRx 530 that provides HB RX MIMO (e.g., signalpath 591).

FIG. 5G illustrates a configuration that provides MH UL CA+MB MIMO. ANT1101 is coupled to a Primary PAiD 510 that provides HB TX, HB RX (e.g.,signal path 591) and MB RX MIMO (e.g., signal path 592). ANT2 102 iscoupled to the UL CA Module 520 that provides MB TX, MB RX (e.g., signalpath 593).

FIG. 5H illustrates a configuration that provides MH UL CA+HB MIMO. ANT1101 is coupled to a primary PAiD 510 that provides HB TX, HB RX (e.g.,signal path 591). ANT2 102 is coupled to the UL CA Module 520 thatprovides MB TX, MB RX (e.g., signal path 593) and to the MIMO DRx 530that provides HB RX MIMO (e.g., signal path 592).

FIG. 6A illustrates a variation of the front-end architecture 500 ofFIG. 5A wherein the LB PAiD includes four output ports. FIGS. 6B and 6Cillustrate various operational modes of the front-end architecture 600of FIG. 6A.

FIG. 6B illustrates a configuration that provides LM UL CA+MB MIMO. ANT1101 is coupled to a primary PAiD 540 that provides MB TX, MB RX (e.g.,signal path 691). ANT2 102 is coupled to the primary LB Module 550 thatprovides LB TX, LB RX (e.g., signal path 692) and to the MIMO DRx 530that provides MB RX MIMO (e.g., signal path 693). A disadvantage of thisconfiguration is LPF loading loss and an increase of LB output ports.

FIG. 6C illustrates a configuration that provides LM UL CA+HB MIMO. ANT1101 is coupled to a primary PAiD 540 that provides MB TX, MB RX (e.g.,signal path 691) and to the HB PAiD 510 that provides HB RX (e.g.,signal path 694). ANT2 102 is coupled to the primary LB Module 550 thatprovides LB TX, LB RX (e.g., signal path 692) and to the MIMO DRx 530that provides HB RX MIMO (e.g., signal path 693). A disadvantage of thisconfiguration is LPF loading loss and an increase of LB output ports.

EXAMPLE 2 OF A FRONT-END ARCHITECTURE

FIG. 7A illustrates another variation of a front-end architecture 700,similar to the front-end architecture 500, wherein there is no MB/HBswitch combining in a MIMO DRx module, where a LB diplexer is positionedafter an antenna switch module, and where a L-M/H diplexer is positionedbetween an antenna and the antenna switch module. The switch 770 enablesMB and HB bypass. There is also a L-M/H diplexer 765 between the switch770 ASM and antenna 102 to support L-M UL CA+M/H MIMO and to relaxlinearity requirements. This also improves insertion loss performance byeliminating use of triplexers. FIGS. 7B-7I illustrate variousoperational modes of the front-end architecture 700 of FIG. 7A.

FIG. 7B illustrates a configuration that provides LM UL CA+MB MIMO. ANTI101 provides MB MIMO RX (e.g., signal path 793) through the MIMO DRx730. ANT2 102 is coupled to a primary MB Module 740 that provides MB TX,MB RX (e.g., signal path 792) and to a primary LB Module 750 thatprovides LB TX, LB RX (e.g., signal path 791). The MIMO DRx module 730includes B66/B25/B3/B39 RX filters.

FIG. 7C illustrates a configuration that provides LM UL CA+HB MIMO. ANT1101 provides HB RX (e.g., signal path 794). ANT2 102 provides HB MIMO RX(e.g., signal path 793) through the MIMO DRx 730 and is coupled to theprimary MB Module 740 that provides MB TX, MB RX (e.g., signal path 792)and to a Primary LB Module 750 that provides LB TX, LB RX (e.g., signalpath 791). The MIMO DRx module 730 includes B7/B30/B40/B41 RX filters.

FIG. 7D illustrates a configuration that provides LH UL CA+MB MIMO. ANT1101 provides MB RX MIMO (e.g., signal path 793) through the MIMO DRx 730and is coupled to a Primary PAiD 710 that provides HB TX, HB RX (e.g.,signal path 792). ANT2 102 is coupled to the MB PAiD 740 that providesMB RX (e.g., signal path 794) and is coupled to a Primary LB Module 750that provides LB TX, LB RX (e.g., signal path 791). B66/B25/B3/B39 RXfilters are included inside the MIMO DRx module 730.

FIG. 7E illustrates a configuration that provides LH UL CA+HB MIMO. ANT1101 is coupled to the Primary PAiD 710 that provides HB TX, HB RX (e.g.,signal path 792). ANT2 102 is coupled to the MIMO DRx 730 that providesHB RX MIMO (e.g., signal path 793), and is coupled to the Primary LBModule 750 that provides LB TX, LB RX (e.g., signal path 791).B66/B25/B3/B39 RX filters are included inside the MIMO DRx module 730.

FIG. 7F illustrates a configuration that provides MM UL CA+MB MIMO. ANT2102 is coupled to the Primary PAiD 740 that provides MB TX1, MB RX1, MBRX2 (e.g., signal path 791). ANT1 101 is coupled to the UL CA Module 720that provides MB TX2 (e.g., signal path 792), and is coupled to the MIMODRx 730 that provides MB RX2 (e.g., signal path 793) MIMO viaswitchplexing. In this configuration, switch combining is required inthe MIMO module 730 and includes, for example, B1 TX and B66 RX/B3 Rxswitch combining and B2 TX and B2 RX/B66 RX switch combining.

FIG. 7G illustrates a configuration that provides MM UL CA+HB MIMO. ANT2102 is coupled to the MIMO DRx 730 that provides HB RX (e.g., signalpath 793), and is coupled to the Primary PAiD 740 that provides MB TX1,MB RX1, MB RX2 (e.g., signal path 791). ANT1 101 is coupled to the HBPAiD 710 that provides HB RX MIMO (e.g., signal path 794), and iscoupled to the UL CA Module 720 that provides MB TX2 (e.g., signal path792). In this configuration, B1 and B2 MB TX filters are utilized aswell as 4 HB RX filters.

FIG. 7H illustrates a configuration that provides MH UL CA+MB MIMO. ANT1101 is coupled to the MIMO DRx 730 that provides MB RX MIMO (e.g.,signal path 793), and is coupled to the Primary PAiD 710 that providesHB TX, HB RX (e.g., signal path 792). ANT2 102 is coupled to the UL CAModule 720 that provides MB TX, MB RX (e.g., signal path 791).B66/B25/B3/B39 RX filters are included inside the MIMO DRx module 730.

FIG. 7I illustrates a configuration that provides MH UL CA+HB MIMO. ANT1101 is coupled to the Primary PAiD 710 that provides HB TX, HB RX (e.g.,signal path 792). ANT2 102 is coupled to the MIMO DRx 730 that providesHB RX MIMO (e.g., signal path 793), and is coupled to the UL CA Module720 that provides MB TX, MB RX (e.g., signal path 791).

EXAMPLE 3 OF A FRONT-END ARCHITECTURE

FIG. 8A illustrates another example front-end architecture 800 whereinthere is MB/HB switch combining in a MIMO DRx module and where a LBdiplexer is positioned before an antenna switch module.

In the front-end architecture 800, bypass is important for single bandperformance vs. MB/HB combined PAiD. In the front-end architecture 800,LB is diplexed before the mPnT switch. In the front-end architecture800, diplex bypass enables low single band insertion loss.

In the front-end architecture 800, PMU1 105 provides power to the MB/HBmodules, and PMU2 105 provides power to the ULCA/LB modules.

FIGS. 8B-8I illustrate various operational modes of the front-endarchitecture 800 of FIG. 8A.

FIG. 8B illustrates a configuration that provides LM UL CA+MB MIMO. ANT1101 is coupled to the Primary MB PAiD 840 that provides MB TX (e.g.,signal path 892), MB RX (e.g., signal path 893). ANT2 102 is coupled tothe MB/HB MIMO DRx 830 that provides MB RX MIMO (e.g., signal path 894),and is coupled to the Primary LB Module 850 that provides LB TX, LB RX(e.g., signal path 891).

FIG. 8C illustrates a configuration that provides LM UL CA+HB MIMO. ANT1101 is coupled to the Primary HB PAiD 810 that provides HB RX MIMO(e.g., signal path 893), and is coupled to the Primary MB PAiD 840 thatprovides MB TX, MB RX (e.g., signal path 892). ANT2 102 is coupled tothe MB/HB MIMO DRx 830 that provides HB RX MIMO (e.g., signal path 894),and is coupled to the Primary LB Module 850 that provides LB TX, LB RX(e.g., signal path 891).

FIG. 8D illustrates a configuration that provides LH UL CA+MB MIMO. ANT1101 is coupled to the MB/HB MIMO DRx 830 that provides MB RX MIMO (e.g.,signal path 894), and is coupled to the Primary PAiD 810 that providesHB TX, HB RX (e.g., signal path 893). ANT2 102 is coupled to the MBPrimary PAiD 840 that provides MB RX (e.g., signal path 892), and iscoupled to the Primary LB Module 850 that provides LB TX, LB RX (e.g.,signal path 891).

FIG. 8E illustrates a configuration that provides LH UL CA+HB MIMO. ANT1101 is coupled to the Primary HB PAiD 810 that provides HB MIMO RX(e.g., signal path 893), and the Primary HB PAiD 810 also provides HB TX(e.g., signal path 892). ANT2 102 is coupled to the MB/HB MIMO DRx 830that provides HB MIMO RX (e.g., signal path 894), and is coupled to thePrimary LB Module 850 that provides LB TX, LB RX (e.g., signal path891).

FIG. 8F illustrates a configuration that provides MM UL CA+MB MIMO. ANT1101 is coupled to the Primary MB PAiD 840 that provides MB TX1 (e.g.,signal path 892), MB RX1, MB RX2 (e.g., signal path 893). ANT2 102 iscoupled to the MB/HB MIMO DRx 830 MB MIMO RX1 and RX2 (e.g., signal path894), and is coupled to the UL CA Module 820 that provides MB TX2 (e.g.,signal path 891). MB-MB switchplexing is used in the MIMO DRx module830, and MB-MB switchplexing is used in the Primary MB PAiD 840.

FIG. 8G illustrates a configuration that provides MM UL CA+HB MIMO. ANT1101 is coupled to the Primary MB PAiD 840 that provides HB MIMO RX(e.g., signal path 892), and is coupled to the Primary HB PAiD 810 thatprovides MB TX1, MB RX1 and RX2 (e.g., signal path 893). ANT2 102 iscoupled to the MB/HB MIMO DRx 830 that provides HB MIMO RX (e.g., signalpath 894), and is coupled to the UL CA Module 820 that provides MB TX2(e.g., signal path 891). MB-HB switchplexing is used in the MIMO DRxmodule 830, and MB-MB switchplexing is used in the Primary MB PAiD 840.

FIG. 8H illustrates a configuration that provides MH UL CA+MB MIMO. ANT1101 is coupled to the Primary MB PAiD 840 that provides MB RX (e.g.,signal path 892), and is coupled to the Primary HB PAiD 810 thatprovides HB TX1, HB RX (e.g., signal path 893). ANT2 102 is coupled tothe MB/HB MIMO DRx 830 that provides MB MIMO RX (e.g., signal path 894),and is coupled to the UL CA Module 820 that provides MB TX2 (e.g.,signal path 891).

FIG. 8I illustrates a configuration that provides MH UL CA+HB MIMO. ANT1101 is coupled to the Primary HB PAiD 810 that provides HB TX (e.g.,signal path 893), HB RX (e.g., signal path 892). ANT2 102 is coupled tothe MB/HB MIMO DRx 830 that provides HB MIMO RX and MB RX (e.g., signalpath 894), and is coupled to the UL CA Module 820 that provides MB TX(e.g., signal path 891). MB-HB switchplexing is used in the MIMO DRxmodule 830.

EXAMPLE 4 OF A FRONT-END ARCHITECTURE

FIG. 9A illustrates another variation of a front-end architecture 900,similar to the front-end architecture 800, wherein there is MB/HB switchcombining in a MIMO DRx module and where a LB diplexer is positionedafter an antenna switch module. FIGS. 9B-9I illustrate variousoperational modes of the front-end architecture 900 of FIG. 9A.

FIG. 9B illustrates a configuration that provides LM UL CA+MB MIMO wheresignal paths 992 and 993 represent MB TX/RX using the MB PAiD 940 andANT1 101, signal path 991 represents LB TX/RX using the LB PAiD 950 andANT2 102, and signal path 994 represents MB RX MIMO using the MIMO DRx930 and ANT2 102. FIG. 9C illustrates a configuration that provides LMUL CA+HB MIMO where signal path 991 represents LB TX/RX using the LBPAiD 950 and ANT2 102, signal path 992 represents MB TX/RX using the MBPAiD 940 and ANT1 101, signal path 993 represents HB RX MIMO using theHB PAiD 910, and signal path 994 represents HB RX MIMO using the MIMODRx 930 and ANT2 102. FIG. 9D illustrates a configuration that providesLH UL CA+MB MIMO where signal path 991 represents LB TX/RX using the LBPAiD 950 and ANT2 102, signal path 992 represents HB TX/RX using the HBPAiD 910 and ANT1 101, signal path 993 represents MB RX using the MBPAiD 940 and ANT2 102, and signal path 994 represents MB RX MIMO usingthe MIMO DRx 930 and ANT1 101. FIG. 9E illustrates a configuration thatprovides LH UL CA+HB MIMO where signal path 991 represents LB TX/RXusing the LB PAiD 950 and ANT2 102, signal path 992 represents HB TXusing the HB PAiD 910 and ANT1 101, signal path 993 represents HB MIMORX using the HB PAiD 910 and ANT1 101, and signal path 994 represents HBMIMO RX using the MIMO DRx 930 and ANT2 102. FIG. 9F illustrates aconfiguration that provides MM UL CA+MB MIMO where signal path 991represents MB TX1/RX1 using the MB PAiD 940 and ANT1 101, signal path992 represents MB TX2 using the ULCA PAM 920 and ANT2 102, signal path993 represents MB RX2 using the MB PAiD 940 and ANT1 101, and signalpath 994 represents MB MIMO RX1 & RX2 using the MIMO Rx 930 and ANT2 102(where MB-MB switchplexing is used in the MB PAiD 940 and MB-MBswitchplexing is used in the MIMO DRx 930). FIG. 9G illustrates aconfiguration that provides MM UL CA+HB MIMO where signal path 991represents MB TX1/RX1/RX2 using the MB PAiD 940 and ANT1 101, signalpath 992 represents MB TX2 using the ULCA PAM 920 and ANT2 102, signalpath 993 represents HB MIMO RX using the HB PAiD 910 and ANT1 101, andsignal path 994 represents HB MIMO RX using the MIMO DRx 930 and ANT2102 (where MB-MB switchplexing is used in the MB PAiD 940 and MB-HBswitchplexing is used in the MIMO DRx 930). FIG. 9H illustrates aconfiguration that provides MH UL CA+MB MIMO where signal path 991represents HB TX1/RX using the HB PAiD 910 and ANT1 101, signal path 992represents MB TX using the ULCA PAM 920 and ANT2 102, signal path 993represents MB MIMO RX using the MB PAiD 940 and ANT1 101, and signalpath 994 represents MB MIMO RX using the MIMO DRx 930 and ANT2 102. FIG.9I illustrates a configuration that provides MH UL CA+HB MIMO wheresignal path 991 represents HB TX1 using the HB PAiD 910 and ANT1 101,signal path 992 represents MB TX using the ULCA PAM 920 and ANT2 102,signal path 993 represents HB RX using the HB PAiD 910 and ANT1 101, andsignal path 994 represents MB RX and HB MIMO RX using the MIMO DRx 930and ANT2 102 (where MB-HB switchplexing is used in the MIMO DRx 930).

EXAMPLE MIMO DRX MODULES

FIG. 10 illustrates an example MIMO DRx module 1030 that can beimplemented in the front-end architectures disclosed herein withparticular advantages being realized when implemented with the front-endarchitectures 500, 600, 700. The TX filters are used when in MM UL CAinclude, but are not limited to: B1-B3 ULCA+B3 MIMO−primary (B3 TX, B3RX, B1 RX), UL CA (B1 TX, B3 RX); B1-B3 ULCA+B1 MIMO−primary (B3 TX, B3RX, B1 RX), ULCA (B1 TX, B1 RX); B2-B4 ULCA+B4 MIMO−primary (B4 TX, B2RX, B4 RX), ULCA (B2 TX, B4 RX); B2-B4 ULCA+B2 MIMO−primary (B4 TX, B2RX, B4 RX), ULCA (B2 TX, B2 RX). Switch combining can be implemented inMM UL CA+M MIMO (e.g., using B1 TX and B66 RX/B3 RX; B2 TX and B2 RX/B66RX). In some embodiments, no switch combining is used between MB and HBbecause duplexing is done outside of the module. The existing DRx HBfilters can be re-used. A single MIMO Rx output indicates that themodule provides MIMO in one band. MIMO 1 and 2 provide MB in. MIMO 3 and4 provide HB signals. A disadvantage is that HH UL CA+B7/B41 MIMO is notsupported.

FIG. 11 illustrates an example MIMO DRx module 1130 that can beimplemented in the front-end architectures disclosed herein withparticular advantages being realized when implemented with the front-endarchitectures 500, 600, 700. The Tx filters are used when in MM UL CAinclude but are not limited to: B1-B3 ULCA+B3 MIMO−primary (B1 B3 RX),UL CA (B3 TX, B3 RX, B1 RX); B1-B3 ULCA+B1 MIMO−primary (B1 TX, B1 RX),ULCA (B3 TX, B3 RX, B1 RX); B2-B4 ULCA+B4 MIMO−primary (B2 TX, B4 RX),ULCA (B4 TX, B4 RX, B2 RX); B2-B4 ULCA+B2 MIMO−primary (B2 TX, B2 RX),ULCA (B4 TX, B4 RX, B2 RX). This embodiment eliminates one Tx filter.The B3 Tx filter covers both B3 and B4. The scheme can use transceiversupport due to 2 Rx outputs from the MIMO module.

FIG. 12 illustrates an example MIMO DRx module 1230 that can beimplemented in the front-end architectures disclosed herein withparticular advantages being realized when implemented with the front-endarchitectures 800, 900. Switch combining can be utilized in MM UL CA+MMIMO: B1 TX and B66 RX/B3 RX; B2 TX and B2 RX/B66 RX. Switch combiningcan be utilized in MM UL CA+H MIMO: B1 TX and B7/B40/B41 RX; B2 TX andB7/B30 RX; B3 TX and B7/B40/B41 RX; B66 TX and B7/B30 RX. A single MIMORx output indicates that this module provides MIMO in one band.

EXAMPLE 5 OF A FRONT-END ARCHITECTURE

FIG. 13A illustrates another example front-end architecture 1300 thatincludes an antenna diversity switch providing antenna swapimplementation and connectivity of a diplexer 1365 after the antennaswap switch. The 8P4T switch includes 2 ; ports for MB and HB bypass, 4ports for CA diplexers and extractors, 1 port for LB TRX, and 1 port forswapping with 1 DRX antenna (e.g., when the primary antenna performanceis poor, swap with DRX antenna 103 or 104 to maintain connection). TheLB TRX goes to either the diplexer 1365 or to the DRX antenna forminimal loss. FIGS. 13B-13I illustrate various operational modes of thefront-end architecture 1300 of FIG. 13A. FIG. 13B illustrates a bypassmode where signal path 1391 represents HB TRX bypass and signal path1392 represents MB TRX bypass, with the bypass mode bypassing thediplexers 1361-1364. FIG. 13C illustrates MB and HB MIMO support wherethe B30/B40 extractor supports B30/B40 TRX and MB MIMO (e.g., signalpaths 1391 and 1395), the B7/B41 CA diplexer supports B7/B41 TRX and MBMIMO (e.g., signal paths 1392 and 1396), the B30/B40 extractor supportsMB TRX and B30/B40 MIMO (e.g., signal paths 1393 and 1397), and theB7/B41 CA diplexer support MB TRX and B7/B41 MIMO (e.g., signal paths1394 and 1398). FIG. 13D illustrates LM ULCA and MB and HB 4×4 MIMOwhere signal path 1391 represents LB TX/RX using the LB module 1350 andANT2 102, signal path 1392 represents HB RX using the HB module 1310 andANT1 101, signal path 1393 represents MB TX/RX using the MB module 1340and ANT2 102, signal path 1394 represents HB RX MIMO using the MIMO DRx1330 and ANT2 102, and signal path 1395 represents MB RX MIMO using theMIMO DRx 1330 and ANT1 101. FIG. 13E illustrates LH ULCA and MB and HB4×4 MIMO where signal path 1391 represents LB TX/RX using the LB module1350 and ANT2 102, signal path 1392 represents HB TX/RX using the HBmodule 1310 and ANT1 101, signal path 1393 represents MB RX using the MBmodule 1340 and ANT2 102, signal path 1394 represents HB RX MIMO usingthe MIMO DRx 1330 and ANT2 102, and signal path 1395 represents MB RXMIMO using the MIMO DRx 1330 and ANT1 101. FIG. 13F illustrates MM ULCAand MB and HB 4×4 MIMO where signal path 1391 represents MB TX2 usingthe ULCA module 1320 and ANT1 101, signal path 1392 represents HB RXusing the HB module 1310 and ANT1 101, signal path 1393 represents MBTX1/RX1/RX2 using the MB module 1340 and ANT2 102, signal path 1394represents HB RX MIMO using the MIMO DRx 1330 and ANT2 102, and signalpath 1395 represents MB RX using the MIMO DRx 1330 and ANT1 101. FIG.13G illustrates MH ULCA and MB and HB 4×4 MIMO where signal path 1391represents MB TX using the ULCA module 1320 and ANT2 102, signal path1392 represents HB TX/RX using the HB module 1310 and ANT1 101, signalpath 1393 represents MB RX using the MB module 1340 and ANT2 102, signalpath 1394 represents HB RX MIMO using the MIMO DRx 1330 and ANT2 102,and signal path 1395 represents MB RX MIMO using the MIMO DRx 1330 andANT1 101. FIG. 13H illustrates HH ULCA and MB 4×4 MIMO where signal path1391 represents B40 TX/RX and B7 Rx using the HB module 1310 and ANT1101, signal path 1392 represents B7 TX using the ULCA module 1320 andANT2 102, signal path 1393 represents MB RX MIMO using the MIMO DRx 1330and ANT1 101, and signal path 1395 represents MB RX MIMO using the MIMODRx 1330 and ANT2 102. FIG. 13I illustrates HH ULCA and MB and HB 4×4MIMO where signal path 1391 represents B40 TX/RX using the HB module1310 and ANT1 101, signal path 1392 represents B7 TX using the ULCAmodule 1320 and ANT2 102, signal path 1393 represents B7 RX MIMO usingthe MIMO DRx 1330 and ANT1 101, and signal path 1394 represents B7 RXusing the HB module 1310 and ANT2 102.

FIG. 14 illustrates an example MIMO DRx module 1430 that can beimplemented in front-end architectures disclosed herein with particularadvantages being realized when implemented in the front-end architecture1300. The MIMO DRx module 1430 includes switch combining MB TX and RXfilters to deliver the optimal performance in MM ULCA+MB 4×4 MIMO. Withthe MIMO DRx module 1430, no switch combining is required in UL CA onlywithout 4×4 MIMO which results in optimal TX performance with no RXfilter loading loss. With the MIMO DRx module 1430, MB-HB diplexing viaCA diplexer/extractor results in support for all MB-HB CA cases andenables the re-use of existing DRX HB filters. The MIMO DRx module 1430includes two MIMO RX outputs to support MIMO in 2 bands, MB-MB, MB-HB,and HB-HB.

EXAMPLE 6 OF A FRONT-END ARCHITECTURE

FIG. 15A illustrates another example front-end architecture 1500 thatincludes an antenna diversity switch providing antenna swapimplementation, connectivity of a diplexer after the antenna swapswitch, and an integrated UL CA power amplifier module and MIMO DRxmodule 1520 (or the combination module 1520). The architecture 1500 issimilar to the architecture 1300 where the ULCA module 1320 and the MIMODRx 1330 are combined to form the combination module 1520. FIGS. 15B-15Gillustrate various operational modes of the front-end architecture 1500of FIG. 15A. FIG. 15B illustrates LM ULCA and MB and HB 4×4 MIMO wheresignal path 1591 represents LB TX/RX using the LB module 1350 and ANT2102, signal path 1592 represents HB RX MIMO using the combination module1520 and ANT2 102, signal path 1593 represents MB RX MIMO using thecombination module 1520 and ANT1 101, signal path 1594 represents MBTX/RX using the MB module 1340 and ANT2 102, and signal path 1595represents HB RX using the HB module 1310 and ANT1 101. FIG. 15Cillustrates LH ULCA and MB and HB 4×4 MIMO where signal path 1591represents LB TX/RX using the LB module 1350 and ANT2 102, signal path1592 represents HB RX MIMO using the combination module 1520 and ANT2102, signal path 1593 represents MB RX MIMO using the combination module1520 and ANT1 101, signal path 1594 represents MB RX using the MB module1340 and ANT2 102, and signal path 1595 represents HB TX/RX using the HBmodule 1310 and ANT1 101. FIG. 15D illustrates MM ULCA and MB and HB 4×4MIMO where signal path 1591 represents MB TX2 using the combinationmodule 1520 and ANT1 101, signal path 1592 represents HB RX MIMO usingthe combination module 1520 and ANT1 101, signal path 1593 represents MBRX using the combination module 1520 and ANT1 101, signal path 1594represents MB TX1/RX1/RX2 using the MB module 1340 and ANT2 102, andsignal path 1595 represents HB RX using the HB module 1310 and ANT1 101.FIG. 15E illustrates MH ULCA and MB and HB 4×4 MIMO where signal path1591 represents MB TX using the combination module 1520 and ANT2 102,signal path 1592 represents HB RX MIMO using the combination module 1520and ANT2 102, signal path 1593 represents MB RX MIMO using thecombination module 1520 and ANT1 101, signal path 1594 represents MB RXusing the MB module 1340 and ANT2 102, and signal path 1595 representsHB TX/RX using the HB module 1310 and ANT1 101. FIG. 15F illustrates HHULCA and MB 4×4 MIMO where signal path 1594 represents B40 TX/RX and B7Rx using the HB module 1310 and ANT1 101, signal path 1591 represents B7TX using the combination module 1520 and ANT2 102, signal path 1592represents MB RX MIMO using the combination module 1520 and ANT1 101,and signal path 1593 represents MB RX MIMO using the combination module1520 and ANT2 102. FIG. 15G illustrates HH ULCA and HB 4×4 MIMO wheresignal path 1594 represents B40 TX/RX using the HB module 1310 and ANT1101, signal path 1591 represents B7 TX using the combination module 1520and ANT2 102, signal path 1592 represents B7 RX MIMO using thecombination module 1520 and ANT1 101, and signal path 1593 represents B7RX using the HB module 1310 and ANT2 102.

FIG. 16 illustrates an example combination module 1620 that combinesfunctionality of a MIMO DRx module and an UL CA PA module, thecombination module 1620 capable of implementation in one or more of thefront-end architectures disclosed herein and may be particularlybeneficial implemented in the front-end architecture 1500. Thecombination module 1620 includes 1 MB TX output to MB PAiD to enable MBduplexer re-use in MH ULCA. The combination module 1620 includes 1 HB TXoutput where the HB TX is needed only if HH ULCA is required. Thecombination module 1620 includes an integrated coupler that enablesforward and backward power sampling. The combination module 1620includes switch combining MB TX and RX filters to deliver the optimalperformance in MM ULCA+MB 4×4 MIMO. With the combination module 1620, noswitch combining is required in UL CA only without 4×4 MIMO whichresults in optimal TX performance with no RX filter loading loss. Withthe combination module 1620, MB-HB diplexing via CA diplexer/extractorresults in support for all MB-HB CA cases and enables the re-use ofexisting DRX HB filters. The combination module 1620 includes two MIMORX outputs to support MIMO in 2 bands, MB-MB, MB-HB, and HB-HB. FIG. 17illustrates an example LB PAMiD 1750 that can be used with one or moreof the front-end architectures disclosed herein.

EXAMPLE OF A WIRELESS DEVICE

In some implementations, an architecture, device and/or circuit havingone or more features described herein can be included in a wirelessdevice. Such an architecture, device and/or circuit can be implementeddirectly in the wireless device, in one or more modular forms asdescribed herein, or in some combination thereof. In some embodiments,such a wireless device can include, for example, a cellular phone, asmart-phone, a hand-held wireless device with or without phonefunctionality, a wireless tablet, a wireless router, a wireless modemconfigured to support machine type communications, a wireless accesspoint, a wireless base station, etc. Although described in the contextof wireless devices, it will be understood that one or more features ofthe present disclosure can also be implemented in other RF systems suchas base stations.

FIG. 18 depicts an example wireless device 1800 having one or moreadvantageous features described herein. In some embodiments, suchadvantageous features can be implemented in a front-end (FE)architecture, generally indicated as 100. In some embodiments, such afront-end architecture 100 can be implemented one or more modules. It isto be understood that the front-end architecture 100 can be any of thefront-end architectures disclosed herein.

As described herein, such a front-end architecture can include, forexample, an assembly of PAs 1820 for amplifying signals to betransmitted, an assembly of LNAs 1822 for amplification of receivedsignals, and an assembly of filters and switches 1824 for filtering ofsignals and routing of signals. As described herein, such a front-endarchitecture can provide support for multiple antennas, such as fourantennas 101, 102, 103, 104.

PAs in the PA assembly 1820 can receive their respective RF signals froma transceiver 1810 that can be configured and operated to generate RFsignals to be amplified and transmitted, and to process receivedsignals. The transceiver 1810 is shown to interact with a basebandsub-system 1808 that is configured to provide conversion between dataand/or voice signals suitable for a user and RF signals suitable for thetransceiver 1810. The transceiver 1810 is also shown to be connected toa power management component 1806 that is configured to manage power forthe operation of the wireless device 1800. Such power management canalso control operations of the front-end architecture 100 and othercomponents of the wireless device 1800.

The baseband sub-system 1808 is shown to be connected to a userinterface 1802 to facilitate various input and output of voice and/ordata provided to and received from the user. The baseband sub-system1808 can also be connected to a memory 1804 that is configured to storedata and/or instructions to facilitate the operation of the wirelessdevice, and/or to provide storage of information for the user.

A number of other wireless device configurations can utilize one or morefeatures described herein. For example, a wireless device does not needto be a multi-band device. In another example, a wireless device caninclude additional antennas such as diversity antenna, and additionalconnectivity features such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and GPS.

One or more features of the present disclosure can be implemented withvarious cellular frequency bands as described herein. Examples of suchbands are listed in Table 3. It will be understood that at least some ofthe bands can be divided into sub-bands. It will also be understood thatone or more features of the present disclosure can be implemented withfrequency ranges that do not have designations such as the examples ofTable 3.

TABLE 3 Tx Frequency Rx Frequency Band Mode Range (MHz) Range (MHz) B1FDD 1,920-1,980 2,110-2,170 B2 FDD 1,850-1,910 1,930-1,990 B3 FDD1,710-1,785 1,805-1,880 B4 FDD 1,710-1,755 2,110-2,155 B5 FDD 824-849869-894 B6 FDD 830-840 875-885 B7 FDD 2,500-2,570 2,620-2,690 B8 FDD880-915 925-960 B9 FDD 1,749.9-1,784.9 1,844.9-1,879.9 B10 FDD1,710-1,770 2,110-2,170 B11 FDD 1,427.9-1,447.9 1,475.9-1,495.9 B12 FDD699-716 729-746 B13 FDD 777-787 746-756 B14 FDD 788-798 758-768 B15 FDD1,900-1,920 2,600-2,620 B16 FDD 2,010-2,025 2,585-2,600 B17 FDD 704-716734-746 B18 FDD 815-830 860-875 B19 FDD 830-845 875-890 B20 FDD 832-862791-821 B21 FDD 1,447.9-1,462.9 1,495.9-1,510.9 B22 FDD 3,410-3,4903,510-3,590 B23 FDD 2,000-2,020 2,180-2,200 B24 FDD 1,626.5-1,660.51,525-1,559 B25 FDD 1,850-1,915 1,930-1,995 B26 FDD 814-849 859-894 B27FDD 807-824 852-869 B28 FDD 703-748 758-803 B29 FDD N/A 716-728 B30 FDD2,305-2,315 2,350-2,360 B31 FDD 452.5-457.5 462.5-467.5 B32 FDD N/A1,452-1,496 B33 TDD 1,900-1,920 1,900-1,920 B34 TDD 2,010-2,0252,010-2,025 B35 TDD 1,850-1,910 1,850-1,910 B36 TDD 1,930-1,9901,930-1,990 B37 TDD 1,910-1,930 1,910-1,930 B38 TDD 2,570-2,6202,570-2,620 B39 TDD 1,880-1,920 1,880-1,920 B40 TDD 2,300-2,4002,300-2,400 B41 TDD 2,496-2,690 2,496-2,690 B42 TDD 3,400-3,6003,400-3,600 B43 TDD 3,600-3,800 3,600-3,800 B44 TDD 703-803 703-803 B45TDD 1,447-1,467 1,447-1,467 B46 TDD 5,150-5,925 5,150-5,925 B65 FDD1,920-2,010 2,110-2,200 B66 FDD 1,710-1,780 2,110-2,200 B67 FDD N/A738-758 B68 FDD 698-728 753-783

General Comments

For the purpose of description, it will be understood that a module canbe a physical module and/or a functional block configured to provide adesired modular functionality with one or more devices and/or circuits.For example, a physical module can be a packaged module implemented on apackaging substrate, a packaged die configured to be mounted on acircuit board, or any other physical device configured to provide RFfunctionality. It will also be understood that a module can include oneor more physical devices, including a plurality of physical devices witheach sometimes being referred to as a module itself.

Also for the purpose of description, it will be understood that acomponent can be physical device and/or an assembly of one or moredevices and/or circuits configured to provide a functionality. In somesituations, a component can also be referred to as a module, and viceversa.

The present disclosure describes various features, no single one ofwhich is solely responsible for the benefits described herein. It willbe understood that various features described herein may be combined,modified, or omitted, as would be apparent to one of ordinary skill.Other combinations and sub-combinations than those specificallydescribed herein will be apparent to one of ordinary skill, and areintended to form a part of this disclosure.

Unless the context clearly requires otherwise, throughout thedescription and the claims, the words “comprise,” “comprising,” and thelike are to be construed in an inclusive sense, as opposed to anexclusive or exhaustive sense; that is to say, in the sense of“including, but not limited to.” The word “coupled”, as generally usedherein, refers to two or more elements that may be either directlyconnected, or connected by way of one or more intermediate elements.Additionally, the words “herein,” “above,” “below,” and words of similarimport, when used in this application, shall refer to this applicationas a whole and not to any particular portions of this application. Wherethe context permits, words in the above Detailed Description using thesingular or plural number may also include the plural or singular numberrespectively. The word “or” in reference to a list of two or more items,that word covers all of the following interpretations of the word: anyof the items in the list, all of the items in the list, and anycombination of the items in the list. The word “exemplary” is usedexclusively herein to mean “serving as an example, instance, orillustration.” Any implementation described herein as “exemplary” is notnecessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over otherimplementations.

The disclosure is not intended to be limited to the implementationsshown herein. Various modifications to the implementations described inthis disclosure may be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, andthe generic principles defined herein may be applied to otherimplementations without departing from the spirit or scope of thisdisclosure. The teachings of the invention provided herein can beapplied to other methods and systems, and are not limited to the methodsand systems described above, and elements and acts of the variousembodiments described above can be combined to provide furtherembodiments. Accordingly, the novel methods and systems described hereinmay be embodied in a variety of other forms; furthermore, variousomissions, substitutions and changes in the form of the methods andsystems described herein may be made without departing from the spiritof the disclosure. The accompanying claims and their equivalents areintended to cover such forms or modifications as would fall within thescope and spirit of the disclosure.

What is claimed is:
 1. A front-end architecture for wirelesscommunication comprising: a first diplexer having a high-pass filter anda low-pass filter; a second diplexer having a band-pass filter and anotch filter; a third diplexer having a high-pass filter and a band-passfilter; an antenna switch module coupled to the first diplexer, thesecond diplexer, and the third diplexer, the antenna switch modulehaving a first throw coupled to a first antenna and a second throwcoupled to a second antenna through the high-pass filter of the firstdiplexer; a first module having a low-band power amplifier withintegrated duplexer and an output coupled to the low-pass filter of thefirst diplexer; a second module having a mid-band power amplifier withintegrated duplexer, a first output coupled to the antenna switch modulebypassing the second diplexer and the third diplexer, a second outputcoupled to the notch filter of the second diplexer, and a third outputcoupled to the bandpass filter of the third diplexer; a third modulehaving a high-band power amplifier with integrated duplexer, a firstoutput coupled to the antenna switch module bypassing the seconddiplexer and the third diplexer, a second output coupled to the bandpassfilter of the second diplexer, and a third output coupled to thehigh-pass filter of the third diplexer; a fourth module having aplurality of filters that includes a mid-band receive filter, ahigh-band receive filter, a plurality of transmit filters, and an outputcoupled to the antenna switch module bypassing the second diplexer andthe third diplexer; and a fifth module having a power amplifierconfigured for uplink carrier aggregation, the fifth module configuredto selectively couple to the fourth module, to the third module, and tothe second module to utilize filters within these modules in one or moreuplink carrier aggregation operating modes.
 2. The front-endarchitecture of claim 1 wherein the high-pass filter of the firstdiplexer is configured to pass mid-band signals and high-band signals.3. The front-end architecture of claim 2 wherein the low-pass filter ofthe first diplexer is configured to pass low-band signals.
 4. Thefront-end architecture of claim 1 wherein the bandpass filter of thesecond diplexer is configured to pass signals in cellular frequencybands B30 and B40.
 5. The front-end architecture of claim 4 wherein thenotch filter of the second diplexer is configured to pass mid-bandsignals.
 6. The front-end architecture of claim 1 wherein the high-passfilter of the third diplexer is configured to pass ultrahigh-bandsignals and signals in cellular frequency bands B7 and B41.
 7. Thefront-end architecture of claim 6 wherein the bandpass filter of thethird diplexer is configured to pass mid-band signals.
 8. The front-endarchitecture of claim 1 wherein the antenna switch module includes afirst port to couple to the second module, and a second port to coupleto the third module such that the first port and the second port areconfigured to bypass the second diplexer and the third diplexer incoupling to the second module and the third module.
 9. The front-endarchitecture of claim 8 wherein the antenna switch module furtherincludes a third port to couple to the second diplexer and a fourth portto couple to the third diplexer.
 10. The front-end architecture of claim1 further comprising a first power management unit configured to providepower to the first module and to the fifth module and a second powermanagement unit configured to provide power to the second module and thethird module.
 11. The front-end architecture of claim 1 wherein thefront-end architecture is configured to provide uplink carrieraggregation simultaneously with multiple input multiple outputoperation.
 12. The front-end architecture of claim 11 wherein, in anoperating mode that provides low-band and mid-band uplink carrieraggregation simultaneously with mid-band multiple input multiple outputoperation, the first module transmits low-band signals to the firstdiplexer, the second module transmits signals and receives mid-bandsignals through the third diplexer, and the fourth module receivesmid-band signals through the first diplexer and the antenna switchmodule.
 13. The front-end architecture of claim 11 wherein, in anoperating mode that provides low-band and mid-band uplink carrieraggregation simultaneously with high-band multiple input multiple outputoperation, the first module transmits low-band signals to the firstdiplexer, the second module transmits mid-band signals through the thirddiplexer, the third module receives signals through the second diplexer,and the fourth module receives mid-band signals through the firstdiplexer and the antenna switch module.
 14. The front-end architectureof claim 11 wherein, in an operating mode that provides low-band andhigh-band uplink carrier aggregation simultaneously with mid-bandmultiple input multiple output operation, the first module transmitslow-band signals to the first diplexer, the second module receivesmid-band signals through the third diplexer, the third module transmitssignals to the second diplexer, and the fourth module receives mid-bandsignals through the antenna switch module.
 15. The front-endarchitecture of claim 11 wherein, in an operating mode that provideslow-band and high-band uplink carrier aggregation simultaneously withhigh-band multiple input multiple output operation, the first moduletransmits low-band signals to the first diplexer, the third moduletransmits and receives signals through the second diplexer, and thefourth module receives mid-band signals through the first diplexer andthe antenna switch module.
 16. The front-end architecture of claim 11wherein, in an operating mode that provides mid-band uplink carrieraggregation simultaneously with mid-band multiple input multiple outputoperation, the second module transmits and receives mid-band signalsthrough the third diplexer using MB-MB switchplexing, the fourth modulereceives mid-band signals through the first diplexer and the antennaswitch module, and the fifth module routes carrier aggregation signalsthrough a filter in the fourth module to transmit the carrieraggregation signals through the antenna switch module and the firstdiplexer, the fourth module configured to use MB-MB switchplexing. 17.The front-end architecture of claim 11 wherein, in an operating modethat provides mid-band uplink carrier aggregation simultaneously withhigh-band multiple input multiple output operation, the second moduletransmits mid-band signals through the third diplexer using MB-MBswitchplexing, the third module receives high-band signals through thesecond diplexer, the fourth module receives mid-band signals through thefirst diplexer and the antenna switch module, and the fifth moduleroutes carrier aggregation signals through a filter in the fourth moduleto transmit the carrier aggregation signals through the antenna switchmodule and the first diplexer, the fourth module configured to use MB-HBswitchplexing.
 18. The front-end architecture of claim 11 wherein, in anoperating mode that provides mid-band and high-band uplink carrieraggregation simultaneously with mid-band multiple input multiple outputoperation, the second module receives mid-band signals through the thirddiplexer, the third module transmits high-band signals through thesecond diplexer, the fourth module receives mid-band signals through thefirst diplexer and the antenna switch module, and the fifth moduleroutes carrier aggregation signals through a filter in the fourth moduleto transmit the carrier aggregation signals through the antenna switchmodule and the first diplexer.
 19. The front-end architecture of claim11 wherein, in an operating mode that provides mid-band and high-banduplink carrier aggregation simultaneously with high-band multiple inputmultiple output operation, the third module transmits and receiveshigh-band signals through the second diplexer, the fourth modulereceives mid-band signals through the first diplexer and the antennaswitch module, and the fifth module routes carrier aggregation signalsthrough a filter in the fourth module to transmit the carrieraggregation signals through the antenna switch module and the firstdiplexer, the fourth module configured to use MB-HB switchplexing.
 20. Awireless device comprising: a transceiver configured to generate aplurality of transmit signals and process a plurality of receivedsignals; a plurality of antennas configured to facilitate transmissionof the transmit signals and reception of the received signals; and afront-end system implemented between the transceiver and the pluralityof antennas, the front-end system including a first diplexer having ahigh-pass filter and a low-pass filter; the front-end system alsoincluding a second diplexer having a band-pass filter and a notchfilter; the front-end system also including a third diplexer having ahigh-pass filter and a band-pass filter; the front-end system alsoincluding an antenna switch module coupled to the first diplexer, thesecond diplexer, and the third diplexer, the antenna switch modulehaving a first throw coupled to a first antenna and a second throwcoupled to a second antenna through the high-pass filter of the firstdiplexer; the front-end system also including a first module having alow-band power amplifier with integrated duplexer and an output coupledto the low-pass filter of the first diplexer; the front-end system alsoincluding a second module having a mid-band power amplifier withintegrated duplexer, a first output coupled to the antenna switch modulebypassing the second diplexer and the third diplexer, a second outputcoupled to the notch filter of the second diplexer, and a third outputcoupled to the bandpass filter of the third diplexer; the front-endsystem also including a third module having a high-band power amplifierwith integrated duplexer, a first output coupled to the antenna switchmodule bypassing the second diplexer and the third diplexer, a secondoutput coupled to the bandpass filter of the second diplexer, and athird output coupled to the high-pass filter of the third diplexer; thefront-end system also including a fourth module having a plurality offilters that includes a mid-band receive filter, a high-band receivefilter, a plurality of transmit filters, and an output coupled to theantenna switch module bypassing the second diplexer and the thirddiplexer; and the front-end system also including a fifth module havinga power amplifier configured for uplink carrier aggregation, the fifthmodule configured to selectively couple to the fourth module, to thethird module, and to the second module to utilize filters within thesemodules in one or more uplink carrier aggregation operating modes.